Shrek, a copyrighted musical, debuts at Hanoi Opera House

The widely renowned musical, which has garnered international acclaim on the esteemed Broadway stage, is set to grace the magnificent halls of the Hanoi Opera House as well as various locations nationwide.

Administrator

4 November, 2023

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The Vietnamese artists will perform the Broadway version of the musical Shrek at the Hanoi Opera House on November 3-4.

Based on the famous DreamWorks animated film, Shrek The Musical is known for its fantastic edge, abundant energy, and unforgettable characters.

The musical is performed in English with Vietnamese subtitles, as seen in The Hanoi Times photo.

This is not your typical fairy tale story with prince or princess characters, fairies, or mystical creatures. Instead, it revolves around an ogre, a talking donkey, a dwarf lord, and a cursed princess. Despite not having the typical fairy tale beauty, this musical holds many valuable lessons.

The YOUniverse has acquired the rights to stage and perform this musical in Vietnam. This decision is due to 2023 marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Australia. The Australian artists involved in the project are excited to contribute to the development of Vietnamese culture and art.

The artistic advisor of the project, Meritorious Artist Dang Chau Anh, shared that the musical is directed by Ylaria Rogers from Australia. Rogers has worked with various artistic troupes worldwide and has directed notable musicals such as Not the Messiah and Under Milk Wood.

Madison Price, an expert in musical theater, serves as the choreographer for the project. Nicholas Gentile, a Broadway composer, takes on the role of musical director. Baritone singer Craig Haggart coaches the vocalists, and Jay Thien Nguyen, an experienced actor in international theaters, directs the performance.

Renowned artist and lecturer Philip Quast, famous for his role as Javert in the original Australian production of Les Misérables, also played a significant role in guiding and inspiring the cast of Shrek.

According to Nicholas Gentile, the musical is not only family-friendly but also conveys a message of equality, understanding, and self-expression. It provides talented and passionate actors the opportunity to showcase their abilities while promoting respect for individual differences and fostering a supportive society.

Shrek The Musical challenges society’s conventional beauty and love standards. Shrek and Fiona, despite not being the typical male and female protagonists, still portray a beautiful love story and find their happily ever after. This demonstrates the power of love beyond gender and societal expectations.

Moreover, the musical emphasizes the importance of environmental protection and sharing love with the less fortunate. The performance costumes are uniquely made by deaf and blind individuals using safe, recyclable materials such as plastic, nylon fiber, denim fabric, coffee grounds, and plastic bottles.

Overall, Shrek The Musical promises an extraordinary theatrical experience filled with enchanting performances, captivating music, and thought-provoking messages.